Ground turkey basically epitomizes the dieter’s dream protein source (providing you’re of the carnivorous persuasion). Low in calories and fat but high in nutrients and protein, substitute this waistline savior in place of ground beef dishes to cut kcals without sacrificing on flavor. Try these four of our favorite turkey treats from food photographer extraordinaire Sarah Holt.
Turkey deserves a place at our table for longer than just festive fayre. The large poultry bird, originally hailing from North America is in fact, more abundant in protein than it’s more popular chicken counterpart.
Providing all nine essential amino acids, turkey is also an excellent source of iron, zinc, phosphorus, selenium, and B vitamins. Its diverse micronutrient profile makes turkey a heart-friendly ingredient go-to that’s incredibly versatile, lending itself to a whole array of fakeaway dishes without the side order of food guilt.
Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Serves: 6
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground turkey
1 yellow onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp salt
Black pepper, to taste
1 tsp chili powder
2 tsp paprika
½ tsp cayenne pepper
½ tsp oregano
1 can of diced tomatoes, 15oz
1 can of tomato sauce, 15oz
4 cups chicken broth
¾ cup jasmine or Basmati rice
Method
- Heat oil in an instant pot over high heat.
- Add the ground turkey to brown, while crumbling for 6-8 minutes.
- Turn off the pot. Add the diced onion, bell peppers, garlic, and dried spices.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, rice, and chicken broth.
- Close the lid. Set to pressure cook on high for 10 minutes. Allow the pressure to lower for 5 minutes.
- Release the valve, serve, and enjoy!
Kcals:135
Carbs: 5g
Protein: 19g
Fat: 4g
Air Fryer Turkey Burgers
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 lb ground turkey
1-2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 shallot or 1/2 yellow onion, grated
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Cooking spray
4 slices Cheddar cheese (optional)
Method
- Preheat the air fryer to 360°F.
- In a bowl, combine turkey, olive oil and grated shallot or onion. Using a box grater over the bowl ensures all of the juice goes into the mix.
- Add the remaining ingredients, except for the cooking spray and cheese, and use your hands to mix and form 4 equal sized patties.
- Press down until they are 1” thick and use your thumb to create an indent in the center of each burger.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place the patties inside.
- Cook for 15-17 minutes, until the burgers reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If using cheese, top each burger 1-2 minutes before the end of cooking.
- Rest for a few minutes and serve in a bun with your favorite toppings and sides.
Kcals: 164
Carbs: 1g
Protein: 27g
Fat: 6g
The Whole Turkey Enchilada
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Serves: 5
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground turkey
1 red onion, diced
2 bell peppers, diced
1 small zucchini, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp salt
Black pepper, to taste
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cayenne pepper
½ tsp oregano
½ tsp turmeric
1 jar or can of enchilada sauce, 15oz
8 8” tortillas warmed
½ cup Cheddar or Mexican cheese, shredded
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the onions, bell peppers and zucchini for 5 minutes.
- Add the turkey to brown, while crumbling for 6-8 minutes.
- Add the garlic and spices, then stir in ½ cup of the enchilada sauce and remove from the heat.
- Spread 1/2 cup of the enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 casserole dish.
- Put 1/3 cup of the turkey mixture onto one side of each tortilla and roll it.
- Place each one in the baking dish, seam side-down.
- Top with another 1/2 cup of the sauce and shredded cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the middle of the oven for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese bubbles.
- Serve and enjoy!
Kcals: 808
Carbs: 36g
Protein: 113g
Fat: 25g
Greek Ground Turkey Meatballs
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
Meatballs
1 lb ground turkey
1 egg
¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
¼ cup red onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic
½ lemon, juiced
¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
½ tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Tzatziki Sauce
1 cup Greek yogurt
½ tsp fresh or dried dill
½ lemon, juiced
½ tsp salt
½ cup finely diced cucumber
1 tsp garlic powder
Method
- Preheat oven to 450°F and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey with the rest of the meatball ingredients, using your hands to mix.
- Use an ice cream scoop to form the meatballs and then roll them in the palm of your hands.
- Place the meatballs on the parchment paper-lined baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until cooked through and reaching 165°F internally.
- While cooking, make the tzatziki sauce. Add the cucumber to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped.
- In a small bowl, combine the cucumber with the remaining tzatziki ingredients.
- Mix well and serve with the meatballs.
Kcals: 213
Carbs: 11g
Protein: 31g
Fat: 6g
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